If I don't qualify for FMLA can I get Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

That's what I was afraid of. So even though I literally had no choice, Washington ESD won't care?

You can still apply and explain your situation during the eligibility interview. Sometimes there are exceptions, but don't get your hopes up too much.

There might be specific circumstances where it's allowed, but generally voluntary quit = no benefits. Your sister might have had a different situation or successfully argued good cause.

Do you know what reasons she gave when she applied? I'm trying to figure out how to present my case to Washington ESD.

That sounds too good to be true. How much does it cost?

They don't charge upfront fees, you just pay when they successfully connect you. Way better than wasting hours of my life on hold.

Never heard of this but anything is better than the current system. Washington ESD's phone lines are absolutely useless.

I feel your frustration but getting angry doesn't help your case unfortunately.

Sorry, I know you're right. Just so tired of fighting this system when I desperately need help.

You're right, I should at least try. How long does the application process usually take?

Initial application is quick online, but if they need to investigate your eligibility it can take several weeks. Be prepared to provide documentation about your father's condition and why you had to quit.

Also keep records of any conversations with your employer about accommodations or leave options they denied.

That's exactly my situation! My employer said they couldn't hold my position but also wouldn't approve FMLA.

This might actually help your case - if your employer couldn't guarantee job protection for medical leave, that could be considered constructive dismissal.

I looked into PFML but you have to work for a covered employer for a certain amount of time. My company was too small I think.

Still worth double-checking the requirements. Sometimes people assume they don't qualify when they actually do.

PFML and unemployment are totally different programs with different rules. Don't confuse them when talking to Washington ESD.

Did you have any documentation about your family situation when you applied?

Yes, medical records, doctor letters, everything. They said it wasn't 'work-related good cause' so didn't matter.

That's another issue - you have to be able and available for work to collect benefits. If you're still caregiving full-time, that could disqualify you even if the quit reason was approved.

Oh great, another hurdle I didn't think about. This is getting complicated.

I think I'm going to try that. The regular phone system seems impossible.

Yeah I tried calling Washington ESD for three weeks straight. Never got through once. These callback services are honestly the only way.

That gives me hope! What kind of policy violations did your employer have?

They had a written policy about reasonable accommodations but refused to even discuss options with me. Made it impossible to continue working there.

Good point. I'll start the application tonight and see what happens.

Make sure to be completely honest about why you quit. Don't try to make it sound work-related if it wasn't.

That might be what I end up doing too. Did you find employers understanding about the caregiving situation?

some were, some weren't. healthcare and home services companies tend to be more flexible since they deal with this stuff all the time

I hadn't thought about that angle. Where would I look for those programs?

Start with DSHS website or call 211 for resource information. They can connect you with local programs.

Thank you, I need to explore all options right now.

Also check with local churches and community organizations. They often have emergency assistance funds for people in tough situations.

How long do appeals usually take?

Can be several months unfortunately, but if you win you get backpay from when you first filed.

I do have emails where I asked about options and they basically said there weren't any.

Perfect! Those emails could be crucial evidence. Keep copies of everything.

Also get any medical documentation about your father's condition that shows why immediate care was necessary.

Will do! Thanks everyone for all the advice and support. This thread has been incredibly helpful.

Good luck! Even if unemployment doesn't work out, you did the right thing taking care of your father.